Northern California Holidays

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Where to stay in Northern California

Find the best Northern California areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Northern California
A marina with various boats docked, including a yellow and white boat named 'Golden Gate'.

Fisherman's Wharf

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

Soak up the atmosphere of bygone days on this historic wharf where the emphasis is still firmly on seafood.

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A cityscape with tall buildings, palm trees, and red double-decker buses.

Union Square

This famous shopping area is a magnet for fashionistas as well as a historic landmark of old San Francisco.

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A trolley on a street with buildings and a clock tower.

Downtown San Francisco

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Oracle Park and Chase Center are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.

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A large, white neoclassical building with a central dome, surrounded by trees and well-maintained gardens.

Downtown Sacramento

Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Sacramento. Top attractions like Golden 1 Center and K Street Mall are major draws, and you can catch the metro at 8th & H/County Center Station or 7th & I/County Center Station to see more of the city.

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A cityscape with modern skyscrapers, a central park with pathways, and a few people walking.

South of Market

From baseball games to top-notch art exhibits, find endless entertainment in one of San Francisco’s fastest-growing neighborhoods.

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Things to do near Northern California

Northern California offers a perfect blend of outdoor and romantic experiences, making it an ideal destination for a holiday. Visitors can indulge in various activities, including exploring recreational areas, hitting the ski resorts, and embarking on scenic drives. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or leisurely pursuits, a tour of this picturesque region will leave you enchanted.

Shopping

In Northern California, visit Folsom Premium Outlets for a variety of brands, just 33.8km away. Broadstone Marketplace, located 27.4km away, offers a vibrant atmosphere. Station Plaza is 29.0km away, perfect for family-friendly shopping experiences amidst a lively city vibe.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Apple Mountain Golf Resort, surrounded by scenic landscapes. For a family-friendly experience, Kids Quest offers engaging recreational activities with a focus on wellness and relaxation. Unwind at Time Out Spa, where rejuvenating body treatments await in a tranquil atmosphere.

Adventure

At River Runners, located 4.8km from Northern California, experience thrilling water sports amidst stunning outdoor vibes. The Placerville Speedway, 12.9km away, offers exhilarating motor racing adventures. For a scenic hike, explore Codfish Creek Trail, 14.8km from the city, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Nightlife

In Northern California, explore San Francisco's vibrant Mission District and North Beach, where lively bars and jazz clubs abound. In the East Bay, Oakland offers eclectic venues like Fox Theater and local breweries, while Sacramento features a buzzing nightlife scene around K Street and Midtown, perfect for evening entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Northern California

Northern California offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and romantic getaways. Explore popular attractions such as fairgrounds, vibrant streets, and breathtaking national parks, which cater to cultural enthusiasts and families alike. Don't miss the top attractions that enhance your experience in this beautiful region, ensuring a memorable holiday filled with diverse activities.

  • South Fork of the American River: Experience the natural beauty of the South Fork of the American River, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy scenic views as you partake in activities like kayaking, fishing, or simply unwinding by the water's edge.
  • Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park: Step back in time at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, where the Gold Rush began. This park offers stunning scenery and adventure, with hiking trails and historical exhibits that highlight the area's rich heritage.
  • Henningsen Lotus Park: Henningsen Lotus Park is an urban oasis ideal for families. Enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and children's play areas, all while soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere and lush surroundings.

Best time to go to Northern California

The best time to visit Northern California can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Northern California falls in June, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Northern California falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.0°F (12.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May55.8°F (13.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
June65.3°F (18.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
September63.7°F (17.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Northern California

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to February and November) for more affordable package holidays to Northern California.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Top hotels in Northern California

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

2500 Mason St San Francisco CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
€173
30 Oct - 31 Oct
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (7,664 reviews)
"Exceptional breakfast !!! Very clean! Friendly and helpful staff. Would not hesitate to visit and stay here again! 5 stars!!"

Reviewed on 1 Oct 2026

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

1500 Van Ness Ave San Francisco CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
€158
25 Oct - 26 Oct
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (6,358 reviews)
"Parking fee is expensive"

Reviewed on 1 Oct 2026

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Handlery Union Square Hotel

Handlery Union Square Hotel

351 Geary St San Francisco CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
€169
25 Oct - 26 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Handlery Union Square Hotel
See all 35,455 properties in Northern California
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Northern California attractions

A forest with a fallen tree, ferns, and a sign indicating the South Fork Trail and Rhododendron Trail.

Redwood National and State Parks

9.6/10 (1,228 reviews)
Walk amid towering trees, hike along scenic coastal trails and spot rare wildlife at this spectacular national park in North Coast California.
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A historic building with arches and a tower, surrounded by palm trees and greenery.
Photo by Jerry Lin (Jinfu Lin)

Stanford University

8.8/10 (4,609 reviews)
Stanford University's iconic Main Quad and Hoover Tower anchor this prestigious academic haven with picturesque gardens. Explore the Cantor Arts Centre and Rodin Sculpture Garden for a refined cultural experience.
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A vineyard with rows of grapevines and a mountainous backdrop.

Napa Valley Wine Train

8.8/10 (849 reviews)
Glide through Napa Valley's vineyards aboard beautifully restored vintage railcars while savouring gourmet cuisine. Reserve the Vista Dome car for panoramic views and an elevated wine country dining experience.
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A waterfall cascading down a steep cliff, surrounded by dense forest and snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky.

Yosemite National Park

9.8/10 (1,681 reviews)
The hiking trails, waterfalls and mountains full of diverse wildlife make this national park one of the country’s most picturesque.
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A waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff with a clear blue sky above.

Yosemite Valley

9.8/10 (4,031 reviews)
Yosemite Valley's towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls create nature's most dramatic amphitheatre. Witness El Capitan's golden sunset glow or find solitude in meadows beneath Half Dome's watchful gaze.
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A cityscape with tall buildings, a fountain, and a tiled plaza.

Moscone Convention Center

8.2/10 (2,926 reviews)
San Francisco's largest convention complex hosts major international conferences and cultural gatherings in a modern, spacious environment. Explore nearby Yerba Buena Gardens or admire the center's art installations.
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A harbor with numerous sea lions resting on piers, a city skyline in the background, and a sign reading "PIER 39".

Pier 39

9.0/10 (31,803 reviews)
This waterfront marketplace captivates with sea lion colonies and panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Savour fresh seafood at harbourside restaurants or browse boutiques across two bustling levels of shops.
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What to do in Northern California

Amazing Scavenger Hunt: A Green Day by Redding’s River

Amazing Scavenger Hunt: A Green Day by Redding’s River

€11
per adult
Amazing Scavenger Hunt: A Green Day by Redding’s River
See all activities in Northern California

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Northern California holiday package cost?
Our Northern California packages, which start from as low as , are the easiest way to save big. Select your preferred flights, hotels and rental cars to create a personalized getaway.
How do I get a cheap travel package to Northern California?
Combine your bookings with Expedia to save big bucks on your next getaway. With over 550 air carriers and 1,000,000 hotel options across the globe, your Northern California holiday package can be tailored exactly to suit your budget. With all that extra cash, why not add one or two fun experiences and tours? It's an easy way to unlock even more discounts. That holiday you've always dreamed of in Northern California is closer than you thought!
Where should I stay in Northern California?
To see famous sights such as Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39, San Francisco is the place to be. Many travellers also adore Monterey, home to Monterey Bay Aquarium and Fishermans Wharf. If time is on your side, why not visit both cities?
What are the top hotels in Northern California?
Indian Wells Resort Hotel and Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs know how to make their guests feel welcome in Palm Springs. If your itinerary also includes San Francisco, take a look at Aloft San Francisco Airport and SFO El Rancho Inn SureStay Collection by Best Western. Both are top picks with travellers.
How far in advance should I book my Northern California holiday?
It depends on the air carrier, but you can usually look up international flights on Expedia nearly a year in advance. While it's generally a good idea to book ahead of time, lucky travellers will occasionally score a cheaper ticket just weeks prior to their intended journey.
What does an Expedia Northern California travel package include?
Hotels, flights and rental cars, or any combination of the three — it's totally up to you. Whether you're exploring Northern California on a family road trip or travelling solo, there's a package to suit every style and budget. Once you've made your booking, why not add on some tours as well?
What should I know before booking a Northern California travel package?
Our prices are already low. However, you'll grab even more bargains if you book your flights, hotels and car rentals together. With an Expedia travel package, you'll get transparent pricing and a huge range of choice.
Can I choose my airline with a Northern California Expedia holiday package?
With a holiday package, you're the boss. Whether you're looking to fly to Northern California in economy or first class, simply select from the available airline options. Expedia has access to over 550 airline partners throughout the world.
If I'm not able to travel, can I cancel my Northern California holiday package?
Certainly, and we'll help you every step of the way. You may be able to amend or cancel your Northern California holiday package for free within 24 hours of booking. But you may incur a fee from your hotel, airline or car rental company if you booked more than 24 hours ago. If your travel plans suddenly change, look up our Customer Service Portal for more information.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.